CR7’s Final Act: Cristiano Ronaldo Sets Sights on 2026 World Cup After Historic 2025 Season
Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo has officially confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America will be the final chapter of his historic international career. As he continues to shatter records in the Saudi Pro League and dominate the digital landscape, the 40-year-old superstar remains a force of nature, proving that his hunger for greatness has not faded as he chases the elusive 1,000-goal milestone.
Cristiano Ronaldo is showing no signs of slowing down as 2025 draws to a close. In a dominant performance for Al Nassr on December 27, 2025, the Portuguese captain netted a crucial brace in a 3-0 victory over Al Okhdood. This performance marked a staggering personal achievement: it was the 14th time in his professional career that Ronaldo has reached the 40-goal milestone within a single calendar year. This feat officially moves him past his eternal rival Lionel Messi, who has achieved the 40-goal mark 13 times, further fueling the ongoing debate over the greatest of all time.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup in the USA
For fans in the United States, the most significant news is Ronaldo’s recent confirmation regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking via video link at a global summit in Riyadh, the icon clarified his retirement timeline, stating that the tournament hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico will be his final major appearance for Portugal. “Definitely, yes, because I will be 41 years old at that World Cup,” Ronaldo remarked. “I have given everything for football for 25 years, and I think that will be the moment to step away.” The prospect of CR7 finishing his legendary journey on American soil has already triggered a massive surge in ticket interest for the tournament.
Chasing the 1,000-Goal Dream
With his career tally now standing at 956 goals, the “Race to 1,000” has become the focal point of the football world. Ronaldo has maintained an incredible strike rate for both Al Nassr and the Portuguese national team throughout the 2025 season. Al Nassr currently sits at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings, holding a four-point lead over Al Hilal, largely thanks to Ronaldo’s leadership and consistency. Having extended his club contract through 2027, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has the necessary runway to reach the four-digit goal count, a feat never before verified in official competitive football history.
A Digital Empire and Global Influence
Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo has redefined the intersection of sports and digital media. His YouTube channel, “UR · Cristiano,” has shattered all platform records, surpassing 77 million subscribers by late December 2025. By providing fans with an inside look at his training, family life, and business ventures, he has cemented his status as the most influential athlete in the world. As he enters 2026, the focus remains on his peak physical condition, which he attributes to a relentless recovery regimen that allows him to compete at the highest level even as he approaches his 41st birthday.
- Calendar Year Milestone: 40 goals reached in 2025 (14th time in career).
- Total Career Goals: 956 goals in official competitive matches.
- League Success: Leading Al Nassr to a record 10th consecutive win in late 2025.
- World Cup 2026: Confirmed as his final international tournament.
